Brampton Manor Academy in East London has achieved its best-ever A-level results, with over 250 students securing straight A grades. The state school, located in the deprived borough of Newham, outperformed elite private institutions including Eton College.
More than half of the school's students achieved a full set of A* or A grades. Many pupils from ethnic minority backgrounds, those receiving free school meals, or first-generation university attendees secured places at Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial and UCL. Since opening its sixth form in 2012, over 400 students have gained entry to Oxbridge.
Among the high achievers, Mate-Stefan Berghes earned four A*s and will study Engineering Science at Oxford, while Abraham secured three A*s to read Veterinary Medicine at Cambridge. Last year, 150 students achieved straight As, and 349 obtained all A* or A grades.
Despite the school's success, national figures show widening regional inequalities. UCAS data revealed that 43.4% of 18-year-olds in London secured a university place, compared to 24.9% in north-east England, a record gap. Ofqual also reported the largest A*-A divide between London and north-east England since the current grading system began.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson commented: "Every young person should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams, but too often opportunities depend on background rather than talent." She highlighted concerns about the lack of progress for white working-class children.
